Something just happened. Maybe a wire is poking. Maybe a bracket came loose at dinner. Maybe your child is in pain and you are not sure how serious it is or whether it can wait until tomorrow.
That moment of uncertainty is stressful, especially when you are not sure who to call or what to do next.
At Larson Family Orthodontics, we built our response process around exactly that situation. Patients can use the Grin Scope app to take a scan and send it directly to Dr. Larson. He reviews it personally and responds with a clear answer, whether you need to come in right away or whether it can wait until your next scheduled visit.
No unnecessary trips, no waiting rooms, no guessing.
If you are unsure which category your situation falls into, contact our office or use the Grin app. We would rather you reach out than wait and wonder.
While you wait to hear from our team, here are some practical steps you can take at home for the most common orthodontic issues:
Loose or Broken Bracket If a bracket has come loose but is still attached to the wire, leave it in place if possible. If you can, cover it with orthodontic wax to prevent irritation and contact our office to schedule a repair.
Poking or Broken Wire Use the eraser end of a pencil to gently push the wire away from soft tissue. If the wire is sharp and causing injury, apply orthodontic wax over the end. Do not attempt to cut the wire yourself, contact our office for guidance.
Mouth Sores or Irritation Rinse with warm saltwater and apply orthodontic wax to any bracket or wire causing friction. Over-the-counter oral analgesic gels can also provide temporary relief.
Something Stuck Between Teeth Rinse with warm saltwater first. Use pre-threaded floss or a floss threader to gently remove the debris. Avoid toothpicks or sharp objects, which can irritate gums or push debris further in.
Broken or Lost Retainer Do not try to wear a retainer that no longer fits. Contact our office as soon as possible — the longer you wait, the more movement can occur. Learn more about retainers →
Loose Teeth Some looseness during active treatment is normal as teeth move through bone. If a tooth feels significantly loose or painful, contact our office promptly for an evaluation.
When something genuinely cannot wait, we are here. Larson Family Orthodontics offers same-day, after-hours, and weekend appointments for urgent orthodontic issues, because a broken bracket or poking wire should not mean days of discomfort waiting for a slot to open up.
Please note that urgent appointment availability is reserved for existing patients. If you are currently in treatment with us, you can count on responsive care when something comes up, that is part of what it means to be a Larson patient.
Our remote triage process through the Grin Scope app means many patients get answers without leaving home. Dr. Larson reviews your scan personally and responds with a clear next step. If you do need to come in, we will get you scheduled as quickly as possible.
Most orthodontic issues are urgent but not life-threatening. However, some situations require immediate action beyond calling our office.
Go to the emergency room or call 911 if you experience:
For everything else, contact Larson Family Orthodontics directly or use the Grin app to send Dr. Larson a scan. We will respond promptly and let you know exactly what to do next.
If you are in significant pain, have a wire causing injury, or have experienced trauma to your mouth or jaw, contact us right away. For everything else, use the Grin app to send Dr. Larson a scan and he will let you know the best next step.
You can take temporary steps to manage discomfort, orthodontic wax is your best tool. But broken brackets and wires need professional repair. Contact our office so we can schedule the right fix and make sure your treatment stays on track.
Some soreness in the first 24 to 48 hours after an adjustment or new aligner set is normal. Eating soft foods and taking over-the-counter pain medication as directed can help. If the pain is severe or lasts more than a few days, contact our office for an evaluation.
Only if you are experiencing a potentially life-threatening situation, uncontrollable bleeding, severe swelling, or difficulty breathing. For orthodontic-specific issues like broken brackets, loose wires, or pain, contact our office or use the Grin app first.
Contact us as soon as possible. A broken or missing retainer can allow teeth to shift quickly. We will evaluate your current alignment and fit you with a replacement.
Your first consultation at Larson Family Orthodontics is complimentary. No obligation, no pressure, just an honest conversation about what’s best for your family.
We’ll review your records, walk you through your options clearly, and make sure you leave with real answers.